Blue Gorilla, 2022, oil on canvas, 60 x 48 in. / 152.4 x 121.92 cm.

Blue Gorilla, Jen Goldman, 2022, oil on canvas, 60 x 48 in. / 152.4 x 121.92 cm.

Silverback mountain gorillas are misunderstood. They are generally peaceful, and only show aggression if they are surprised or feel threatened. This portrait was inspired by my face-to-face sighting where his behavior portrayed a friendly glance. I chose blue to represent calmness and trust.